Be In-The-Know
Consider keeping one of these handy devices around; even if it's not used everyday, it's good to have in case of emergency.
by Sarah Pelot
February 1, 2006
You never know when Mother Nature is going to get fiesty. Things might be smooth-sailing one
moment and then, suddenly, you find yourself in an emergency situation. That's why it's a good idea
to have the new Storm Tracker TV/Lantern/AM/FM/Weather Alert Radio on hand at all times.
Although mid-winter isn't peak boating season, it's host to another test-friendly
environment: a mini-ice storm that, inevitably, knocked out the power and provided me with the
opportunity to utilize this new device. The most helpful function, of course, is the powerful bulb
lantern and ultra-bright LED area light, conveniently located on each end of the device to disperse
light in both directions. It's useful to have the AM/FM weather band radio, and had I been unaware
of the inclement weather's arrival, the Automatic Storm Alert warning system would've been much
appreciated. Though I didn't need the 5-inch solid-state UHF/VHF black-and-white TV, it was easy to
imagine how grateful I'd be to have it in an emergency. I was especially pleased at how light and
easy to handle it was, due to the ergonomic rubberized grip.
There are numerous features that make having the Storm Tracker on your boat an excellent
idea. Leave it in alert mode 24/7, and when an emergency alert (including weather, natural,
technological and national) is broadcasted by the NOAA, an audible alert is sounded to notify you.
It can be corded or cordless, in which case the foldaway hand crank power generator provides backup
power for radio and LED light. Consider keeping one of these handy devices around; even if it's not
used everyday, it's good to have in case of emergency. Retails for $59.99. (954) 584-4446,
www.vectormfg.com.